Scarecrow builders get ready. The Haywood County Master
Gardeners recently announced that Saturday, October 9, is the date for this
year’s competition. Once again, the location of the annual event will be on the
lawn of the Haywood County courthouse in Brownsville, Tenn.
“Each year
our entries get bigger and more creative,” says Rita Hathcock, Haywood County
Master Gardener Association president.
This is the sixth year that the contest is being sponsored by the Master
Gardeners. According to Hathcock, over 40 entries are expected.
The historic court square comes to life the week leading
up to the contest as scarecrows of all shapes and sizes begin to pop up around
the courthouse.
“It’s so much fun to drive around and see what new
scarecrow has gone up during the days and week prior to the contest,” adds
Hathcock.
This contest is open to everyone and you do not have to be
a Haywood County resident to participate. Scarecrows can be any size and must
be in family-friendly and in good taste. They cannot depict a real person. All
construction materials must be non-hazardous and each entry must be securely
erected and able to withstand inclement weather.
Participants have until 5 p.m., on the day of the event to erect and
make final preparations to their entries. Judging will be in three categories –
adult, children, and “Most Creative.” Cash prizes are awarded in the adult and
children category.
After the judging, the scarecrows will remain on the
courthouse lawn and cash and gift prizes will be awarded to the winners during
the Hatchie Fall Fest, October 16.
An award will also be given for “People’s Choice” and will
go to the scarecrow with the most popular vote. Attendees on the evening of the
competition and at the Hatchie Fall Fest will have an opportunity to cast their
vote for this award.
Entry forms are available at various locations in
Brownsville, including the Haywood County Extension Office, West Tennessee
Delta Heritage Center, Chamber of Commerce and online at www.hatchiefallfest.com.
CAPTION: School children
love entering the scarecrow contest. This one, entered by a class at Haywood
Elementary, depicts the schools mascot. The annual contest is open to everyone
and offers cash prizes for winners in the adult and children categories.
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